Golden Spike National Historic Site

The Golden Spike National Historic Site commemorates the incredible accomplishment of the completion of the first transcontinental railroad. Today, much of this historic railway has been converted into trails throughout the park. There are currently three gravel rail-trails along the old Transcontinental Railroad grade. To date (2012) the only wheelchair accessible area is at the visitor center and out to the last spike site nearby.

Cyclists are permitted on the upper portion of the Big Fill Trail and along the northeast portion of the historic grade, as well as along both the east and west auto tours (when open). No off trail mountain biking is permitted, and ATV/HOVs and snowmobiles are not allowed in the park. You can cross-country ski and horseback ride along the Big Fill Trail and northeast grade. The trails are wide enough to accommodate vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians, and vehicles should maintain a maximum 15 mph speed limit.

The segments are:

1. East Auto Tour is 1.5 miles along the Union Pacific railroad grade. Automobiles are permitted but the route is closed when the snow begins to fall and opens in the spring when it's gone.

2. West Auto Tour is 9 miles out along the gravel county road and 7 miles back along the old Central Pacific railroad grade. Automobiles are permitted on this trail. The railroad grade portion is usually open June October (when there is no snow).

3. Big Fill Trail is 1.5 miles along the old Central Pacific grade. The trail is open year-round but only to bicycles and pedestrians.

There is no shade on any of the trails, and summer sun can be brutal. Be sure to bring plenty of water, wear a hat and use sunscreen.

Golden Spike National Historic Site is 32 miles west of Brigham City, Utah, on State Route 83. If you're coming from northbound I-15, take Exit 365 and turn right (west) on SR 13 to SR 83. Follow the signs 32 miles to Golden Spike.

If you're coming from southbound I-15, take Exit I-84 west to Exit 40 (SR 102). Turn left and follow signs to SR 83. Turn right on SR 83 and follow the signs to Golden Spike about 29 miles.

If you're coming eastbound on I-84, take Exit 26 and head south on SR 83 past Thiokol Rocket Park. Turn right at the sign to Golden Spike, about 27 miles.

If you're coming westbound from Logan, take SR 30 west to I-15, then follow the directions above as if coming from southbound I-15, about 50 miles.